1962-06-23 Flash Elorde w pts 15 Auburn Copeland, Rizal Coliseum, Manila, Philippines - NBA. Referee: Felipe Hernandez. Scorecards: 74-68, 70-69, 69-69. It was not one of the champion’s better nights, the soggy ring canvas caused by incessant rain making it difficult for speed and balance while allowing Copeland (129½) to stay out of harm's way for most of the time. Elorde (130) started slowly and did not really get going until the fifth round when he landed a number of solid southpaw lefts. The only knockdown came in the ninth after a flurry of head blows followed by a hard left put Copeland down momentarily, but the American quickly fought back. Cut over the right eye in the tenth, Elorde was under some pressure in the final session when Copeland cut loose with stiff jabs and accurate rights, but he had just about done enough to warrant the majority decision that came his way.

In August, the NBA was reconstituted as the World Boxing Association (WBA).